How to Fix a Foundation From Leaks

Leaks in the foundation of a house can be caused from cracks in the foundation walls or water that is not properly draining away from the home. Cracks in the foundation walls can be repaired by applying a sealant to the walls. Water that is not draining properly can be corrected by grading the soil so water will drain away from the home. You can fix a foundation from leaks by first determining the specific problem that is causing the leak.

Things You'll Need

• Chalk
• Foundation sealant
• Caulk gun
• Putty knife
• Garden rake
• Black plastic sheets
• Construction adhesive
• Scissors
• Shovel
• Mulch

Instructions

Using Sealant

1. Locate the cracks where water is seeping into the foundation and mark them with chalk.

2. Cut the end of a tube of foundation or epoxy sealant with a utility knife.

3. Insert the tube into a caulk gun and press the trigger to force the push plate into the tube.

4. Place the cut end of the tub on the wall at the top of the crack and press the trigger to slowly release the sealant.

5. Go down the wall until all of the crack has been covered with the sealant.

6. Smooth out the sealant on the wall using your finger or a putty knife.

7. Let the sealant dry for at least 24 hours.

Soil Grading

1. Add sand or dirt along the edge of the foundation using a shovel. Use enough material to allow for settling that will occur over time.

2. Shape the sand or dirt into a slope along the foundation. The dirt should be eight inches to ten inches deep and at least two feet across.

3. Place black plastic sheets along the length of the newly created slope at a width of about two-and-a-half to three feet. Use a pair of scissors to cut the plastic sheets to the proper size.

4. Fold over the edge of the plastic that is against the foundation and add construction adhesive along the length of the plastic. Place the plastic, with the adhesive, against the side of the foundation about two or three inches above the top of the slope.

5. Cover the plastic sheets with mulch to complete the project.

Tips & Warnings

• Soil that is level or sloping towards the home's foundation does not properly drain water.

• If you are unsure about the severity of a foundation leak you should contact a professional.

• Water will wear away at a home's foundation if the problem is not corrected.

References

• Inspectapedia: How to Seal Cracks in Concrete Floors & Walls
• Hammer Zone: Fixing A Leaking Basement: Soil Grading--The Easiest First Step

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish